Virginia Beach conference aims to help caregivers

VIRGINIA BEACH -- Caregivers are faced with countless changes, challenges and choices, and sorting through them can often be confusing and overwhelming.

That’s why organizers of the upcoming “Caregivers: Changing of the Guard” Conference on Saturday promise an informative event with plenty of caring hearts.

“This conference is appropriate for new, seasoned and prospective caregivers who need to know the basics about caring for their parents, as well as themselves, while remaining mentally, physically and spiritually healthy and balanced,” said Sandra Christmas , a minister who founded and directs EWES Ministries, Inc.

The faith-based nonprofit organization, which stands for Equipping Women for Excellent Services, presents the event from 8:30 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. at New Life Providence Church, 1244 Thompkins Lane.

Christmas started the organization five years ago to prepare women for re-entering the community after a jail term.

“We offer career training, Bible study, counseling, mentoring and coaching,” said Christmas, who encountered many women taking care of an aged parent – including herself since June. “It’s a new experience for me, too. Who is trained to raise your parent?” Christmas asked.

Christmas and Rosalind Whitaker , who has cared for her mother for the past 2½ years, joined together to create the conference.

“I began to go through a series of emotions – from frustration to guilt to burnout,” Whitaker said.

The conference will touch upon many different avenues to teach and assure participants they are traveling the right path – both emotionally and spiritually.

Patricia M. King , a registered nurse with Sentara College of Health Sciences, will address the signs and symptoms caregivers may experience. James Anderson , associate minister with Mount Lebanon Baptist Church, and his wife, Brenda Anderson , author of “Touched by Mama,” will talk about the shift to becoming a caregiver while maintaining a healthy relationship with parents.

During the breakout sessions, attendees can choose from speakers who will share their own personal stories: Tracey Williams , CEO of Senior Assist; Sue Shelton, author of “A Most Reluctant Caregiver”; Marcia Brodie, marketing director for the Frieden Agency; and Patrick McCleese and Al Voorhees of Home Helpers, who will discuss the male perspective of caregiving.

Brenda Cobb, a community liaison with Odyssey Healthcare of Norfolk, will explore the resources, steps and tips relevant to most caregiver responsibilities. Selece Bowman, with Medical Facilities of America, will explore the spiritual and practical blessings of caring.

The day’s events will conclude with individual prayer and vendor tables.

“We want them to know that they are not in this alone,” Cobb said. “And we want them to be empowered and equipped for the journey and transition,” Christmas said. 

Caregivers: “Changing of the Guard” Conference is at New Life Providence Church, 1244 Thompkins Lane, Kempsville Campus, Multipurpose Room (140) from 8:30 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. Saturday. Cost is $10. Cash or check payable to EWES Ministries, P.O. Box 7266, Portsmouth, VA 23707-0266. For more information, call 373-4140 or visit www.ewesministries.org